3 NOVEMBER 1923, Page 3

The Minister of Health has offered to appoint a Royal

Commission to inquire into the panel system, and the doctors have undertaken to abide by its decisions. Inquiry into the whole subject is most desirable, and we are well content with this solution. Meanwhile the Minister has made a new offer to the doctors in respect 'of fees. He proposes (a) a fee of 8s. 6d. for five years from January 1st next, provided that, if the Royal Commission during that period suggests any material alteration of conditions, the profession shall be free to reopen the question ; or (b) a special court of inquiry to report on the fee to be paid as from January 1st next. An amicable settlement, whichever choice the doctors make, ought now to be assured.